🥘 Black Eyed Peas Curry Recipe | Indian Lobia Curry

If you love hearty, protein-packed Indian curries, this Black Eyed Peas Curry recipe (known in India as Lobia Curry) is a must-try. Made with tender black eyed peas simmered in a spiced tomato-onion gravy, this dish is vegan, gluten-free, and bursting with authentic Indian flavors.

This curry is not only delicious but also rich in protein, fiber, and nutrients, making it a healthy Indian dinner recipe for the whole family. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, festive occasions, or even meal prep — and can be made easily in a pressure cooker, Instant Pot, or stovetop pot.

🛒 Ingredients for Black Eyed Peas Curry

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25–30 minutes
Total Time: 35–40 minutes

🌱 Main Ingredients

• Black eyed peas (lobia) – 1 cup (dried) or 3 cups (cooked)

• Water – 3 cups (for pressure cooking)

• Oil – 2 tbsp (vegetable or mustard oil)

• Onion – 1 large, finely chopped

• Tomatoes – 2 large, pureed or finely chopped

• Garlic cloves – 4, minced

• Ginger – 1 inch, grated

• Green chili – 1, slit (optional for spice)

🌿 Spices

• Cumin seeds – 1 tsp

• Turmeric powder – ½ tsp

• Red chili powder – 1 tsp (adjust to taste)

• Coriander powder – 2 tsp

• Garam masala – ½ tsp

• Salt – to taste

🍋 Garnish

• Fresh coriander leaves – 2 tbsp, chopped

• Lemon juice – 1 tbsp

👨‍🍳 Step-by-Step Black Eyed Peas Curry Recipe

Step 1 – Prep the Black Eyed Peas

1. Wash the dried black eyed peas thoroughly.

2. Soak them in water for at least 4–5 hours or overnight for faster cooking.

3. Drain the soaking water before cooking.

Step 2 – Make the Masala Base

1. Heat oil in a pressure cooker or heavy-bottomed pot.

2. Add cumin seeds and let them splutter for a few seconds.

3. Add chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.

4. Stir in garlic, ginger, and green chili, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 3 – Add Tomatoes & Spices

1. Add pureed tomatoes to the pan.

2. Stir in turmeric, red chili powder, coriander powder, and salt.

3. Cook until the oil begins to separate from the masala — this step ensures a rich, deep flavor.

Step 4 – Cook the Black Eyed Peas

Pressure Cooker Method:

1. Add soaked black eyed peas to the masala.

2. Pour in 3 cups of water and mix well.

3. Pressure cook for 3–4 whistles on medium heat until tender.

Instant Pot Method:

1. Add lobia and water to the Instant Pot.

2. Set on Pressure Cook mode for 15 minutes, followed by a natural release.

Stovetop Method:

1. Add black eyed peas and water.

2. Cover and simmer for 40–45 minutes until soft, adding water as needed.

Step 5 – Finish the Curry

1. Once the peas are cooked, check seasoning and adjust salt or spices.

2. Sprinkle garam masala and fresh coriander.

3. Drizzle lemon juice for brightness.

4. Serve hot.

🍽️ Best Occasions to Serve Black Eyed Peas Curry

• Weeknight dinners – Quick, healthy, and satisfying.

• Indian festive feasts – As part of a thali with roti, rice, and vegetables.

• Vegan gatherings – Crowd-pleasing, plant-based protein option.

• Meal prep – Stays well in the fridge for 3–4 days.

• Family lunches – Comforting and wholesome.

🍛 Serving Suggestions

• With steamed basmati rice for a simple, classic meal.

• Alongside roti, paratha, or naan for a complete Indian bread pairing.

• As part of a North Indian thali with dal, sabzi, pickle, and salad.

• Over quinoa or millet for a gluten-free healthy dinner.

🧮 Nutrition Facts (Approx. per serving)

💡 Tip: For an even lighter version, use minimal oil and pressure cook without sautéing for an oil-free curry.

🌟 Tips for Perfect Black Eyed Peas Curry

• Always soak dried black eyed peas for faster cooking and better digestion.

• Cook the masala well until oil separates for authentic flavor.

• Add a pinch of kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves) for a restaurant-style touch.

• If the curry is too thick, add warm water and simmer to desired consistency.

• Adjust spices to taste — mild, medium, or spicy.

❓ FAQs – Black Eyed Peas Curry

Q. Can I use canned black eyed peas?
Yes, just skip the soaking step and reduce cooking time — simmer for 10–12 minutes.

Q. How do I make it spicier?
Increase green chilies or add extra red chili powder.

Q. Can I freeze this curry?
Absolutely! It freezes well for up to 2 months — thaw and reheat before serving.

📝 Interesting Facts

This Black Eyed Peas Curry (Lobia Curry) is the perfect blend of flavor, nutrition, and comfort. With its spiced tomato-onion gravy, tender black eyed peas, and fresh coriander garnish, it’s authentic Indian cooking at its best.

Whether you’re looking for a protein-rich vegan dinner, a gluten-free Indian curry, or just a comforting family meal, this recipe is a winner every time. Pair it with rice or roti, and you have a wholesome, satisfying dish that will keep everyone coming back for seconds.